In an effort to support Michigan’s school children, the state was approved to issue a staggering $108 million in Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) benefits for the summer of 2023. These benefits, aimed at providing essential nutrition during the summer months, will play a crucial role in ensuring that eligible families receive the support they need. Let’s delve into the details of this vital program.
In late 2022, Congress approved significant investments in summer meal programs, marking one of the most consequential changes to federal nutrition programs in years. These changes have transformed the landscape of childhood hunger, ensuring that eligible children have access to the nutrition they need during the summer months. Congress has restricted P-EBT benefits for summer 2023 to children who attended a school at the end of the 2022-23 school year participating in the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program.
For the summer of 2023, Michigan has allocated $120 per child as part of its Summer P-EBT program. ll households in Michigan with eligible school children can expect to receive their 2023 Summer P-EBT payments by September 30, 2023. This ensures that families have ample time to utilize these benefits for their children’s nutritional needs. The first set of disbursements happened July 21st.
The decision to continue providing pandemic benefits, such as P-EBT, is driven by the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on communities and families across the nation. Despite significant progress in battling the virus, the effects of the pandemic persist, and many families continue to face economic challenges and disruptions to their children’s access to meals. As such, the government recognizes the ongoing need to support those who may still be struggling.
What to Do If You Haven’t Received Benefits
If you or someone you know has not received P-EBT benefits and believes they are eligible, there are steps you can take to ensure you receive the support you need:
Contact Your School or School District: Start by reaching out to your child’s school or school district. They should have information about the P-EBT program and can assist you in understanding your eligibility and the status of your benefits.
Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for P-EBT, including having a child who attended a school participating in the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program during the 2022-23 school year.
Reach Out to State Agencies: Contact your state’s Department of Health and Human Services or equivalent agency responsible for administering P-EBT benefits. They can provide guidance on the application process and assist with any issues related to benefit distribution.
Stay Informed: Keep up to date with information provided by local and state authorities, as well as the USDA’s P-EBT website, for updates on program changes, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines.
Appeal if Necessary: If you believe you are eligible but have been denied benefits, inquire about the appeals process with your state agency. There may be opportunities to address discrepancies or errors in your application.
Remember that P-EBT benefits are designed to provide vital assistance to families during these challenging times. If you have questions or concerns about your eligibility or the status of your benefits, don’t hesitate to seek assistance HERE. Access to nutrition for children is a priority and ensuring that those in need receive the support they require is a collective effort.
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